PhysComp Maker Cards and Drawing Tool

Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII), 2021

Python, diagrams.net, Jekyll

Resource

PhysComp Maker Cards are a physical card deck consisting of electronics components for students and makers. Each component has an ID and QR code that may be looked up in an online wiki. The wiki contains information about what the component is, when to use the component, how the component works, and how to use it. Commented starter code and examples are also given.

I produced documentation for many of the cards as well as a tool for easily drawing schematics with the components. The tool configures diagrams.net to use the standard set of components and drawing settings. Students and makers may simply drag in components and connect them. They can make block diagrams to plan their designs and then detailed schematics with the same components. This diagram tool is a much easier starting point for new physical computing students and makers than traditional schematic tools.

These tools are currently in use in courses in Integrative Design, Arts, and Technology (IDeATe) courses at Carnegie Mellon University.